There’s something magical about a love story that endures through the highs and lows of life. Johnny Cash and June Carter’s romance wasn’t just a fairy tale—it was real, raw, and unapologetically human. Their connection began backstage at the Grand Ole Opry in 1956 when Johnny's piercing eyes, as black and shiny as agates, captivated June. She later recalled how those eyes both intrigued and unnerved her. "I only glanced into them," she admitted, "because I believed that if I looked too long, I'd be drawn into his soul and never walk away."
As it turned out, walking away wasn't an option. "When they came together, they met their match," says Michael McCall, editor of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, in an exclusive interview with Closer Weekly. The journey to becoming husband and wife took years, culminating in a union 50 years ago this month. Their love story wasn't without its challenges, as Johnny battled depression and drug addiction, but their bond remained unshakable until June's passing in 2003.
Johnny and June.
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From Heartache to Harmony
Life wasn’t always easy for the Man in Black. "I was evil. I was as crazy as you can get," Johnny confessed about his darker days. But June was his anchor, the one who dared to call him out when he strayed. "If she didn’t like something I did," he said with a laugh, "she told me about it in no uncertain terms!" Now, the world gets a deeper glimpse into their legendary romance through Johnny Cash: Forever Words, a CD co-produced by their son, John Carter Cash. This collection features songs inspired by Johnny's long-lost writings, brought to life by artists like Kris Kristofferson and Willie Nelson, as well as daughters Rosanne Cash and Carlene Carter.
According to musician Jewel, who contributed to the project, these songs offer an intimate look at "one of the most intense and storied American love affairs." They reveal not just the beauty but also the complexity of Johnny Cash's life and legacy. "The good, the bad, and everything in between—it's all there," she adds.
Johnny and his family.
A Complex Beginning
Johnny’s career took off after signing with Sun Records in 1954, shortly after marrying Vivian Liberto. Hits like “Cry, Cry, Cry” and “I Walk the Line” made him a household name, even capturing the heart of June Carter, who hailed from country music royalty—the Carter family. "My daughter loved ‘Folsom Prison Blues,’” June reminisced, “so much so that I’d rock her to sleep dancing to it." Despite her admiration, falling for Johnny came with complications. June was still married to her first husband, Carl Smith, when she met Johnny, and Johnny himself was married to Vivian.
June’s feelings for Johnny created a storm of emotions. "Falling in love with him was the most painful thing I’ve ever experienced," she admitted. Yet, out of this turmoil emerged one of her greatest hits, "Ring of Fire," which Johnny released in 1963. It became a symbol of their fiery, passionate connection.
